Urban Service Providers’ Perspectives on School Responses to Gay, Lesbian, And Questioning Students: An Exploratory Study (Report)

Perspectives regarding bullying of gay, lesbian, and questioning (GLQ) students were obtained from 16 school and community service providers in this exploratory study. Insights were gained regarding in-school responses to homophobic bullying threats beyond traditional punishments (e.g., suspension). Barriers to developing safe schools for GLQ students included passive school personnel, a conservative religious climate, victim blaming, and blindness to GLQ students. Facilitators to improving school climate and preventing GLQ bullying also were identified. **********